And now, another COP topic to sort through... :-)

[Mujiir]

Well... We just got the T-bird a short time ago. This last weekend on our way home we got the sad portends that have been described herein many times relating to coil failure. I have been through the TBN topics and read enough to think that I could attempt this myself. I have gotten the covers off and exposed the coils, and I must say it was much easier that I had feared. I ordered a full set of Spectra Premium C619M8 Ignition Coils (Pack of 8), and a full set of 8 Bosch 9603 Double Iridium Spark Plugs. It appears that only two cops have been replaced so far as the others look to be a lot older, possibly the original ones. Here's the info (hype) on the coil set I bought. "Unit is designed to Original Equipment (OE) fit, form and function requirements accomplished by leveraging Spectra Premium's OE engine management systems design expertise.

• 100% copper base in both primary and secondary windings
• Windings insulated by high voltage enamel coating
• Unit is tested for durability through long-cycle thermal shock test (-50 to 300 Degree F), ensuring reliability against extreme vibrations
• Each new coil is road tested to ensure real world performance and to verify that each design meets Spectra Premium's high standards for quality.

The coil set was $108.84. I know there were cheaper sets out there, but these appeared to be a step up to me.

All and all, I would say that this is a pretty basic bit of work and could be accomplished by most people that can turn a wrench. Go for it!

[BillyL]

You are definitely doing the right thing changing all eight and the plugs. I suggest also changing the rubber boots and connection springs, using a good coating of dielectric grease on the spring connections. I am not familiar with the COPs you are using, but do like your plug choice. You can do it! Just have some long 3/8" socket extensions, a swivel head 10mm socket and a 12 pack on ice for that dreaded #8.

[Mujiir]

You are definitely doing the right thing changing all eight and the plugs. I suggest also changing the rubber boots and connection springs, using a good coating of dielectric grease on the spring connections. I am not familiar with the COPs you are using, but do like your plug choice. You can do it! Just have some long 3/8" socket extensions, a swivel head 10mm socket and a 12 pack on ice for that dreaded #8.

The set comes with all new boots and springs from that I understand. So far all the bolts have been 7mm. BTW, 9/32nds and 7mm are the same. Who knew?

[FatMan]

Don't forget to use anti-size on the plugs threads.

[Mujiir]

Don't forget to use anti-size on the plugs threads.

Anti-seize? Is that to keep the steel threads from goring in the aluminum heads? Are they aluminum? Yeah, I'm new to these cars... Do the plugs stay tight with anti-seize on them?
I heard that only one teaspoon of anti-seize was ever made, and they have been cleaning it off everything ever since...

[FatMan]

Anti-seize? Is that to keep the steel threads from goring in the aluminum heads? Are they aluminum? Yeah, I'm new to these cars... Do the plugs stay tight with anti-seize on them?
I heard that only one teaspoon of anti-seize was ever made, and they have been cleaning it off everything ever since...

Yes, I think the heads are aluminum, someone else will know and jump-in. The plugs will stay tight, be sure to torque the plugs to spec. I use it on anything that I will be removing from time-to-time, lug nuts, plugs, the nut that holds lawn mower blade's on.
You know, you may be right about the small amount that was made, I know that every time I use it, it ends up between my toes, and what is worse some how down the crack of my butt. That said, I have never seize-up!!

[007Cruiser]

Thanks, that image is now stuck in my head forever.

[Mujiir]

You know, you may be right about the small amount that was made, I know that every time I use it, it ends up between my toes, and what is worse some how down the crack of my butt. That said, I have never seize-up!!

HA! That'll help you slide into the drivers position. ;-)
Gene, here's an image that'll get it out of your minds eye... Enjoy! :-D

[FatMan]

Thanks, that image is now stuck in my head forever.

[FatMan]

HA! That'll help you slide into the drivers position. ;-)
Gene, here's an image that'll get it out of your minds eye... Enjoy! :-D

[007Cruiser]

HA! That'll help you slide into the drivers position. ;-)
Gene, here's an image that'll get it out of your minds eye... Enjoy! :-D

[Mujiir]

As you know, I was in the process of changing all my coils (COPs) and plugs. In reading the other posts on TBN concerning this venture, I got the impression that this was going to be like sliding down a razor blade into iodine. I have read herein about how VERY proud Ford dealerships ($$$$) are in charging for this task. I was worried to say the least, but I chose to face the challenge. This post is to assure you that IMHO, if you can trim your own toenails, you can do this. Many folks have said the #8 spark plug is particularly onerous. The trick (for me) was to put a 3" lg. 3/8 drive extension on the 5/8 spark plug socket, and then put the universal on top of that. From there you can add whatever further extensions you feel necessary to get the ratchet in the clear. I added two more 6" long extensions after the universal and had no problem at all getting #8, or any of the other plugs out for that matter. I used a 1/4 drive set with a 7mm socket for the covers and COPs. If you know "rightie-tightie" and "leftie-loosie" this should prove no problem. I didn't have a 7mm open end wrench for the cover bolts over plug #8, and the 1/4 drive ratchet and socket didn't fit, so I used my 9/64ths box end wrench. (9/64ths and 7mm are the same.)

This method is guaranteed not to wear, tear, pull hair, or bite the baby. It will not chip, peel, crack, or fade... Money back, I really mean it this time...

The job is done, and what a difference it made! It now goes like a scalded dog. Sounds great, and no hesitation or stumble when giving a little throttle going up a hill. Ran it on I-30 and it got up to 80 on the shortish entrance ramp. Most excellent! Loving my T-bird.

[BillyL]

Good for you!! And that is why we share information and love our birds. Enjoy the ride!

[007Cruiser]

Glad that it all worked out well.

[Mujiir]

And now, on to tightening the X-braces on the frame... I might have to let some air out of me to reach under the car. :-/